Dr Damien Ridge PGDipCounsPsych MBACP PhD
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Movingartsbase 134 Liverpool Road Islington London N1 1LA View map |
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07906 256 506
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Profile
"And to actually live life without worrying every minute about what’s going to happen next, about what people think of me, about what, am I doing a good enough job, you know, to actually take life as it is, and to take knocks on the chin, and you know, dust myself off... it’s just a completely different way of living." - Rosey, from Ridge & Ziebland 2006:http://www.workingtogetherforrecovery.co.uk/RecoveryfromDepression(RidgeandZiebland2006).pdf
Like Rosey discussing the value of therapy above, I work to help my clients deal with any distress in the first instance, but more than this, learn to live life to fullest, not just 'get through'. The approach I offer is person-centred (the idea that within you, you have the answers) and psychodynamic (looking at how things we are less conscious of, and the past, can influence us in the present moment), as well as cognitive behavioural (helping you to change your thinking to feel better).
Talking to a skilled therapist can help you to uncover the things you need to cope better, to invigorate your life in ways you had not thought possible, and find greater happiness. We will work together to discover your yearnings, and help you find your own authentic approach life.
Training, Qualifications & Experience
I am a fully qualified psychotherapist and counsellor, and a member of The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I abide by the BACP code of ethics.
Professionally, I have experience of providing counselling at the Mind charity and in private practice.
Having talked to people all over the UK about their depression and how they recovered, I have particular expertise in helping people understand how to recover from anxiety and depression, and have published on the topic: http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843105756/review/.
I am involved in continuing professional development (CPD), and like all BACP therapists, my work is supervised to ensure that you get the best possible care. In addition to this, I believe all effective therapists should have had their own personal therapy to ensure they can be fully present for you without their own issues getting in the way. I have had 10 years of my own personal psychodynamic/existential therapy in order to ensure that I provide the best possible care to my clients. I have been a yoga and mindfulness practitioner for 12 years.
Areas of counselling I deal with
- Abuse
- Addiction(s)
- Anger Management
- Anxiety
- Bereavement
- Bullying
- Depression
- Gender Identity
- HIV/AIDS
- Low Self-Confidence
- Low Self-Esteem
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Sexual Issues
- Sexuality
- Spirituality
- Stress
- Trauma
- Work Related Issues
Therapies Offered
- Psychoanalytical and Psychodynamic - Psychodynamic Therapy
- Humanistic Therapies - Person-Centred Counselling
- Other Therapies - Integrative
Fees
My sessions are £50 for individuals, but I do have some low-fee places available from time to time.
Further Information
I practice out of Movingartsbase in Islington. The closest tube stations are Angel (Northern Line) as well as Highbury & Islington (Victoria Line)


